Zakynthos Half Day Tour To The Turtle Island, Cameo & Keri Caves

Zakynthos, the idyllic Greek island, is a prime destination for those seeking a unique eco-adventure. The Zakynthos Half Day Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the island’s renowned conservation efforts for the endangered loggerhead turtles. From observing the turtles in their natural habitat to exploring the captivating Keri Caves, this tour promises a remarkable experience that combines natural wonders, cultural heritage, and environmental awareness. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to discover the hidden gems of Zakynthos, this half-day excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

This half-day tour in Zakynthos allows visitors to explore the nesting beach of endangered loggerhead turtles, swim at Turtle Island, and visit the Keri Caves.
Visitors can observe the loggerhead turtles from a glass-bottom boat, getting an up-close look at the turtles without disturbing their natural habitat.
The tour includes a visit to the picturesque Cameo Island, where visitors can capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of the turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Visitors can explore the Keri Caves, marveling at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave walls, and learn about the island’s geological history.
The tour also includes a stop at the Aristeon Ecological Olive Press, where visitors can learn about the traditional methods used to extract the prized Zante olive oil and sample the fragrant, golden oil.

Zakynthos: Breeding Ground for Loggerhead Turtles

Zakynthos, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, is a renowned breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtle.

These magnificent creatures return to the island’s sandy beaches each summer to lay their eggs, continuing a centuries-old cycle of life.

The island’s southern coastline, particularly the Kalamaki Beach, is a prime nesting site for the turtles.

Visitors can observe the turtles from a safe distance, either from the shore or by taking a glass-bottom boat tour, allowing them to glimpse these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.

Conservation efforts have been crucial in protecting the loggerhead turtles and ensuring their survival on Zakynthos, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and eco-travelers alike.

Tour Highlights: Explore Turtles’ Watery World

This small-group day trip to southern Zakynthos lets you explore the turtles’ watery world, visiting the nesting beach of Kalamaki and looking for turtles from a glass-bottom boat.

You’ll also have the chance to swim at Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and the Keri Caves. Stop for a photo at the picturesque Cameo Island, and visit the Aristeon Ecological Olive Press to taste Zakynthos’ famous Zante olive oil.

The tour includes full insurance, bottled water, boat tickets, and olive oil tasting, though food, drinks, and equipment like towels and snorkels aren’t provided. An additional charge applies if your hotel is more than 10-20km from the meeting point in Zakynthos town.

Visiting the Nesting Beach of Kalamaki

The tour begins with a visit to the nesting beach of Kalamaki, where travelers can observe the endangered loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtles from a glass-bottom boat.

This allows visitors to get an up-close look at the turtles without disturbing their natural habitat. The turtles use the sandy beach as a breeding ground, and seeing them in their watery environment is a truly remarkable experience.

The guide will provide information about the turtles’ biology, behaviors, and conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species.

This initial stop sets the tone for the rest of the day’s adventure, as travelers delve deeper into the world of Zakynthos’ sea turtle population.

Swimming at Marathonisi (Turtle Island)

Next, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island.

Here, they’ll have the chance to swim and explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding this picturesque isle. Travelers can enjoy the turtles’ natural habitat, observing the majestic creatures in their element.

The island’s tranquil beaches and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for this unique encounter with Zakynthos’ marine life. While there are no restroom facilities on the island, visitors can purchase snacks and refreshments from the floating canteens.

This stop offers a truly unforgettable opportunity to get up close and personal with the endangered loggerhead sea turtles that call Zakynthos home.

Exploring the Keri Caves

After swimming at the picturesque Marathonisi, the tour then takes visitors to explore the stunning Keri Caves.

These natural wonders, carved into the limestone cliffs along the southern coast of Zakynthos, offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s geological history.

Travelers can marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave walls, creating a mesmerizing, otherworldly atmosphere.

The caves are accessible by boat, and visitors can disembark to venture into the cool, dimly lit interiors.

Knowledgeable guides will share insights about the caves’ formation and the unique ecosystem they harbor.

Exploring the Keri Caves is a truly captivating experience, allowing visitors to connect with Zakynthos’ natural wonders.

Capturing the Beauty of Cameo Island

One of the highlights of the tour is a stop at the picturesque Cameo Island, where visitors can capture stunning photographs against the backdrop of the turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs.

This small, heart-shaped island is connected to the mainland by a short, arched bridge, making it easily accessible. Guests can wander along the island’s pathways, admiring the beautiful scenery and snapping photos to immortalize their experience.

The island’s unique architecture, with its charming white buildings and classic Greek style, provides the perfect contrast to the natural surroundings. Whether visitors are looking to capture the perfect selfie or a breathtaking landscape, Cameo Island is a must-visit destination on the Zakynthos tour.

Discovering the Aristeon Ecological Olive Press

The Aristeon Ecological Olive Press stands as a testament to Zakynthos’ rich olive oil heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore the island’s centuries-old olive oil production.

During the tour, guests will witness the traditional methods used to extract the prized Zante olive oil, from harvesting the olives to pressing them using state-of-the-art machinery. The knowledgeable staff provides insight into the entire process, highlighting the sustainability practices that have been passed down through generations.

Visitors can even sample the fragrant, golden oil, savoring its distinct flavor that has made Zakynthos’ olive oil renowned worldwide. This stop offers a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s agricultural roots and appreciate the care and craftsmanship behind each bottle of Zante olive oil.

Meeting and Pickup Arrangements

Pickup service is available within a 10km radius from the meeting point at Lomvardou 20 in Zakynthos town. For accommodations located outside this radius, up to 20km away, an additional charge of 25€ per booking applies.

The tour van displays the Dali Tours logo for easy identification.

Travelers will be picked up from their hotel or accommodation within the 10km radius. Those staying farther away, up to 20km from the meeting point, can still join the tour but will need to pay the extra 25€ fee.

Identifying the tour van is easy, as it prominently displays the Dali Tours logo, ensuring a smooth and seamless start to the day’s adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Special Precautions Are Taken to Protect the Turtles?

The tour avoids disturbing the turtles’ nesting beach and doesn’t allow swimming near the turtles. Visitors observe the turtles from a glass-bottom boat to minimize disturbance and protect this endangered species’ breeding grounds.

Can Participants Interact Directly With the Turtles?

Participants can’t directly interact with the turtles. The tour focuses on observing the turtles’ natural habitat from a distance, such as from a glass-bottom boat. Direct interaction could disturb the endangered turtles and is not allowed on this tour.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no stated minimum age for this tour. However, the nature of the activities, like swimming and boat rides, may make it unsuitable for very young children. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their recommended age range.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour has no specific restrictions on photography. Guests are free to take photos throughout the experience, though they should avoid disturbing the wildlife. Photography is permitted on the boat, at Marathonisi, and during other stops.

What Happens in the Event of Inclement Weather?

In the event of inclement weather, the tour operator will assess the safety and feasibility of activities. They may adjust the itinerary or reschedule the tour to ensure participants’ comfort and enjoyment. Flexibility is key to provide the best experience possible.